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Acrochordonous Plaque, Fibroepithelial Polyps, Skin Tags

Acrochordons or fibroepithelial polyps are tumor-like lesions of the skin reported to occur in humans and animals. Sometimes they become numerous, closely located growths forming a plaque, predominantly located at the neck. Although the cause of these lesions remains unclear, there is a breed predisposition for Bulldog-like breeds.[1] Although acrochordons are benign tumors, on rare occasions, histologic examination of a clinically diagnosed FEP reveals a basal or squamous cell carcinoma.

An acrochordon is usually skin colored or hyperpigmented, and it may appear as surface nodules or papillomas on healthy skin. Most acrochordons vary in size from 2-5 mm in diameter, although larger acrochordons up to 5 cm in diameter are sometimes evident. The most frequent localizations are the neck and the axillae, but any skin fold, including the groin, may be affected.[3] Acrochordons are also called skin tags, soft fibromas, fibroepithelial polyps, FEP, fibroma pendulans, pedunculated fibromas, and soft warts. Hormone imbalances may facilitate the development of acrochordons, (for example, high levels of growth hormone in acromegaly).[3]

If fibroepithelial polyps occur in the urinary tract, animals may develop urinary incontinence, urinary tract infection, and/or increased thirst and abnormally frequent urination.[2]

References
1. Bidaut AP, Gross TL, Noli C, Welle M, Suter MM. Acrochordonous plaques in two Bulldogs and a Pug dog. Vet Dermatol. 2003 Jun;14(3):177-9.
2. Reichle JK, Peterson RA 2nd, Mahaffey MB, Schelling CG, Barthez PY. Ureteral fibroepithelial polyps in four dogs.Vet Radiol Ultrasound. 2003 Jul-Aug;44(4):433-7.
3. Robert A Schwartz, MD, MPH. Acrochordon, emedicine.com, May 30, 2007

Go Pets America recommends seeking the advice of your local veterinarian for the most appropriate vaccination program and for the diagnosis and treatment of your pet's health problems. For vaccination requirements please contact your state and local licensing authorities.

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